The Art of the Profile
3 minute readPublished: Monday, November 10, 2025 at 2:53 pm
The New Yorker's Profile Powerhouses
The New Yorker magazine boasts a roster of accomplished staff writers, each with a distinct voice and impressive portfolio of profiles. These writers have consistently delivered insightful and engaging portraits of prominent figures across various fields, solidifying the magazine's reputation for in-depth journalism.
Larissa MacFarquhar, a staff writer since 1998, has explored diverse subjects, from social issues to prominent individuals like Barack Obama and Noam Chomsky. Her work has earned her recognition, including awards from the Newswomens Club of New York and Johnson & Johnson.
Rebecca Mead, who joined the magazine in 1997, has profiled cultural figures such as Lin-Manuel Miranda and Margaret Atwood. Her writing extends beyond profiles, with several books to her name, including a New York Times bestseller. She has also held academic positions and received a Guggenheim Fellowship.
Ian Parker, a staff writer since 2000, has contributed to The New Yorker since 1992. His profiles have covered a wide range of figures, including Jonathan Ive and Elton John. He received a National Magazine Award for his profile writing.
Kelefa Sanneh, a staff writer since 2008, has contributed to The New Yorker since 2001. He is the author of a book on popular music and has written for various publications.
Michael Schulman, a staff writer, has contributed to The New Yorker since 2006, focusing on arts and culture. His profiles include figures like Bowen Yang and Ridley Scott. He is also the author of a New York Times Notable Book.
Daniel Zalewski, an executive editor at The New Yorker, also contributes profiles, including those of Ian McEwan and Werner Herzog. He has previously worked as an editor at other publications.
These writers, along with their colleagues, contribute to The New Yorker's legacy of high-quality journalism, offering readers a window into the lives and work of influential figures.
BNN's Perspective: The New Yorker's commitment to long-form journalism and in-depth profiles is commendable. While the magazine's focus on cultural figures and intellectual elites may not always resonate with a broad audience, the quality of the writing and the insights offered are undeniable. The diversity of subjects covered, from politics to the arts, ensures a rich and varied reading experience.
Keywords: The New Yorker, profiles, journalism, writers, Larissa MacFarquhar, Rebecca Mead, Ian Parker, Kelefa Sanneh, Michael Schulman, Daniel Zalewski, Barack Obama, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Jonathan Ive, Elton John, cultural figures, arts, literature, awards, magazine.